terrible

adjective

ter·​ri·​ble ˈter-ə-bəl How to pronounce terrible (audio)
ˈte-rə-
Synonyms of terrible
1
: extremely bad: such as
a
: notably unattractive or objectionable
terrible behavior
b
: of very poor quality
a terrible movie
c
: strongly repulsive : obnoxious
a terrible smell
2
a
: difficult
in a terrible bind
b
: formidable in nature : awesome
a terrible responsibility
c
: exciting extreme alarm or intense fear : terrifying
3
: extreme, great
a terrible disappointment
terribleness noun

Synonyms of terrible

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Examples of terrible in a Sentence

Traffic was held up by a terrible accident. I have a terrible cold. The service at that restaurant is terrible.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For making terrible arguments, for being such an egomaniac, and for allowing the opportunity for more people to experience my sisters. — Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 30 July 2026 There’s a debate to be had, though, about whether this approach has saved lives or added to the carnage of America’s terrible drug epidemic. — Michael Powell, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026 After a huge surge in the COVID years, growth has stalled, and actually, reversed, after the terrible decision to increase prices by 50%. — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 During that terrible season, 71% of California Dungeness boats stopped fishing and more than 200 jobs were lost. — Susanne Rust follow, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for terrible

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin terribilis, from terrēre to frighten — more at terror

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2c

Time Traveler
The first known use of terrible was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing terrible

Rhymes for terrible

See All Rhymes for terrible

Browse Nearby Words

terribilita
terrible
terribleness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terrible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terrible. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

terrible

adjective
ter·​ri·​ble ˈter-ə-bəl How to pronounce terrible (audio)
1
: causing terror or awe : fearful, dreadful
a terrible disaster
2
a
: very great in degree
made a terrible mess
a terrible cold
b
: very bad in quality
terrible music
terribly
-blē How to pronounce terrible (audio)
adverb

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